NGT Rebukes Clean Ganga Mission Over Unauthorized Bridge Construction in Prayagraj
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has strongly criticized the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) for its failure to pinpoint the officials accountable for the alleged illegal construction of a railway bridge over the Ganga river in Prayagraj. The tribunal emphasized that responsibility for such violations cannot be attributed to a single individual, highlighting systemic issues in enforcement.
Hearing Details and Tribunal's Directives
The principal bench of the NGT, comprising Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava and Expert Member A Senthil Vel, was hearing a plea filed by the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Purwa). During the proceedings, the tribunal directed the NMCG to identify the officials responsible for violating norms under the River Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection and Management) Authorities Order, 2016. In its order dated January 30, the NGT stated, "The officials responsible for taking the decision and proceeding further with the construction of the bridge in violation of the 2016 Order without obtaining prior permission of the NMCG are required to be identified for appropriate action."
NMCG's Inadequate Response and Tribunal's Observations
The NMCG's reply indicated an intention to take action solely against the project director of the Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), the executing agency for the bridge construction. However, the NGT found this approach wholly insufficient. The tribunal noted that the NMCG had not placed any communication on record to identify those responsible for the decision-making process. According to the 2016 Order, it was the duty of the head of the district-level committee to ensure compliance within the district, yet no such accountability had been established.
From the NMCG's stance on record, it is evident that no communication has been sent or action initiated to identify the responsible officer. The NGT remarked, "The matter has been adjourned on several dates and replies have been filed, but this fact has not been disclosed." Consequently, the tribunal has mandated the NMCG and the fifth respondent to take necessary steps based on these observations and submit a report at least one week before the next hearing on April 23.
Background of the Case
The Bharatiya Kisan Union (Purwa) approached the NGT in 2024, alleging multiple violations in the construction of a railway bridge between Daraganj and Jhunsi in Prayagraj. The applicant claimed that the bridge was built on the flood plains of the Ganga and across the river without prior approval from the NMCG, contravening the provisions of the 2016 Order. Additionally, there were allegations that muck generated during construction was being dumped into the river, further exacerbating environmental concerns.
In its action taken report to the NGT, the NMCG stated that, following principles of natural justice, the project director of RVNL had been given a hearing opportunity before any final decision. However, the NGT observed that this report clearly showed the NMCG's intent to proceed only against the project director, a decision deemed inadequate by the bench.
Implications and Broader Context
This case underscores ongoing challenges in enforcing environmental regulations, particularly concerning the protection of the Ganga river. The NGT's stance reflects a broader demand for accountability and systemic reforms to prevent such violations. As the matter progresses, it highlights the critical need for robust oversight and collective responsibility in infrastructure projects impacting ecologically sensitive areas.
